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A chic tunic Vogue 1255 (VoguePatterns.com) This loose-fitting tunic has many fun and feminine details. There are four vertical pleats and three rows of raw-edge bias ruffles on either side of center front. An elastic casing appliquéd on the garment’s right side and self-fabric ties at the side seams give the tunic shape. The hem is a wide petal shape with matching insets along the lower sid seams. Fabric-covered buttons and fabric button loops give an added designer look. The bracelet-length sleeves are gathered into a narrow bias cuff with a button and n loop closure. The neckline is finished with a narrow bias binding, and topstitching is throughout. Our tester found it time-consuming to construct. To speed things up, he recommends pregathered trim, ribbon for the loops, and regular shank buttons. Tissue-weight silk, handkerchief linen, voile, batiste, and silk jersey are recommended. The tunic at right is made of lightweight silk shantung. (Sized Misses’ 6-20 for busts 30.5-42 in.) ng —Tested by Toby Barton, Winstead, Connecticut STYLE TIP: Let this top’s loose, fl owing silhouette stand out by pairing it with simple, slim-fi t pants. TUNIC, VOGUE 1255 Pants: Rachel by Rachel Roy (Macys.com); Sunglasses: Colors in Optics (Bloomingdales.com); Bracelets: Stylist’s own; Handbag: Liz Claiborne (JCPenney.com); Shoes: Studio Paolo (JCPenney.com) A seasonal rain jacket Indygo Junction: Chinois Coat IJ885 (IndygoJunction.com) This A-line swing coat is a fashionable staple. It is unlined, has a large, stand-up collar, dropped shoulders, wide sleeves, oversized buttons with snaps underneath, a deep center-back box pleat with a decorative buttoned tab at armhole level, and a 4-inch hemline. Generously sized so it easily slips over other garments, it comes in hip or mid-thigh length, with inseam pockets on the longer view. It is appropriate for many fabric types, such as light cotton for warmer climates, wool and fleece for colder locations, rainwear fabrics for those unpredictable spring days, velvet for evening, and denim for everyday wear. Instructions are concise, and the sewing is straightforward. (Sized S-2XL for finished busts measurements of 42-49.5 in.) ✚ ● —Tested by, Karen Konicki, New York, New York STYLE TIP: Showcase those one-of-a-kind accent buttons with this design. www. threadsmagazine.com PRI L /MAY 2012 33